February 5, 2026 (Tokaj, Hungary) — The Sonoma Tokaj Sister Cities Committee (STSCC) will be providing an opportunity for an internship in Tokaj, Hungary, during this year’s harvest. We are looking for someone who is from the Sonoma County area and will represent the Sonoma community and our Sister City Committee. All are welcome to apply who meet the qualifications and are eager to experience winemaking in the world-renowned wine region of Tokaj in Eastern Europe.
The Program
The internship is from mid-August to November 30, 2026 (dates dependent on harvest and mutually agreed upon). The intern will be working at the Tokaj-Hétszőlő Wine Estate, a premier winery in world-famous Tokaj, situated in the heart of Tokaj-Hegyalja, on the southern slopes of Mount Tokaj. Its vineyards were first planted in 1502. The intern will be working with Gergely Makai, General Manager and Master Winemaker, who speaks English and is able to provide instruction and share knowledge of local wine making processes. The winery will provide room and a choice of free board or equivalent payment and a small stipend for leading English-speaking tours, should they be requested. The STSCC will provide $2500 to cover the cost of airfare and any other expenses. Our Sister City members in Tokaj will provide cultural programs during the weekend or non-working hours.
Requirements
- Applicant must be 21 or older
- Driver’s license with ability to drive a car with manual transmission
- Have experience working the crush at least once, but not required
- Able to handle harvest, cellar duties and other assignments
- Flexible, enthusiastic, and mature individual with strong work ethics
Intern Responsibilities
- Airfare or other expenses beyond $2500.
- Be willing to learn some basic Hungarian.
- Share their experience in a classroom situation and/or with the STSCC.
- May be asked to attend Sister City fundraisers
To Apply – Submit a resume and a cover letter explaining why you are interested in the internship
Please submit via e-mail to: sonomatokajsistercities@gmail.com
Resume with cover letter due no later than: Friday, March 27, 2026
For more information email sonomatokajsistercities@gmail.com or contact Teresa Tope at 707 337-4283
